Fast and cool! A popular melodic hardcore band in Japan
Melocore is short for “melodic hardcore,” a music genre that emphasizes hardcore punk sounds and strong melodies.
When you hear “melocore bands,” how many can you think of? If you’re thinking, “I want to learn more about melocore!” you might have come to the right article.
Here, we’ll introduce a wide range of Japanese melocore bands all at once—from groups performing at major festivals across the country and thriving at the forefront, to next-break acts working energetically at their local live houses.
Even though we lump them together as melocore, there’s a blend of diverse musical traits, so be sure to pay attention to each band’s unique character!
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Fast and cool! Popular domestic melodic hardcore bands (91–100)
COME ON BOYBURL
Formed in Osaka in 1998, what BURL has kept doing is the pure essence of straight, body-moving punk rock.
The four-piece led by TAKA has been heating up the energetic melodic-core scene.
Devour their album “JUST PUNK, GO!!” and you’ll notice the breath of ’70s punk still racing as their heartbeat today.
That energy connects to stage performances that overwhelm audiences—whether at major festivals or in hometown live houses.
Among the many shades of melodic hardcore, BURL has carved out a firm position and radiates a strong presence.
Why not experience their world at a live show? Ride the powerful rhythms and you’re sure to feel your mind and body set free!
Loved oneFOMARE
FOMARE is a three-piece rock band formed in 2014 in Gunma Prefecture.
Their appeal lies in a sound that’s both heavy and energetic while resonating deep at the core of the body, paired with strongly messaged lyrics delivered clearly in Japanese.
The way they pack their words seems to prioritize communicative clarity, and their structure—shifting between singing and spoken delivery—conveys the lyrical content even more vividly.
In 2017, they joined small indies table within the indie label THE NINTH APOLLO, and in 2020 they made their major-label debut with Threethums under Sony Music, steadily stepping up their career.
Fast and cool! Popular domestic melodic hardcore bands (101–110)
long hairFOMARE
A melodic hardcore band that took flight from Takasaki City in Gunma Prefecture to the entire country.
Since their formation in 2014, they have steadily built their career, winning the runner-up prize at FM Gunma’s band contest “ROCKERS2015” in November 2015.
They went on to top the Oricon Indie Albums Chart with their album “FORCE,” and made their major-label debut in November 2020.
Their appeal lies in a three-piece lineup’s exhilarating, fast-paced sound, powerful vocals, and emotionally resonant Japanese lyrics, with a string of hit signature songs to their name.
With powerful musicianship and passionate live performances, they are a formidable band that captivates rock fans and doesn’t let go.
Cockroach manAburi na Taun
Aburi-na Town is a three-piece band known for their exhilarating, fast-paced songs and husky, powerful vocals.
Formed in Okayama in 2018, they quickly captivated local fans with performances packed with sweat and passion.
Their recommended track “Baka” resonates with listeners through lyrics that unleash raw, down-to-earth emotion and a catchy melody.
Yamama’s thunderous drums, Yukinari’s vibrant guitar work, and Shiokichi’s unique bass lines intertwine to create a sound that vividly colors the listener’s youthful memories.
With endorsements from Tower Records and electrifying live shows that send crowds into a frenzy, they’re set to lead the music scene from here on out.
Keep your eyes on their next moves!
To a vividly colored nightclimbgrow
Hailing from Shiga Prefecture, climbgrow grabs listeners by the heart with driving, high-velocity melodic lines.
After steadily building their presence through live shows since their formation in 2012, they made their major-label debut in 2020.
The powerful guitar riffs that evoke the break of dawn and the bluesy voice of Taisei Sugino create a synergy that’s unforgettable once you hear it.
In particular, Rise and Fall from the album CULTURE is a signature track beloved by many listeners.
While influenced by bands like The Elephant Kashimashi and THEE MICHELLE GUN ELEPHANT, they fuse in their own original charm to craft a unique sound.
Their overwhelming live performances are highly acclaimed among music fans.
There’s no doubt that their passionate riffs and sharply messaged lyrics are bringing fresh wind to the melodic hardcore scene, and if you catch them live, their energetic stage presence will have you hooked in an instant.
Midnight CruiseMr.JiNGLES
Since their formation in 2005, Mr.
JiNGLES has continued to captivate many fans with a dreamlike world and energetic sound.
In 2013, their release tour for the mini-album “MAGIC TUNES” even sold out Shinjuku LOFT, a testament to their remarkable popularity.
Their live performances make audiences feel as if they’re at an amusement park, energizing the venue with setlists rooted in alternative punk.
Having established their own unique genre, “fairy-tale punk,” their music is perfect for anyone who wants to immerse themselves in a fantastical worldview.
It’s especially recommended for those who wish to express the emotions swaying between dreams and reality through music.
WARNINGSUNSET BUS
SUNSET BUS is a punk rock band formed in 2007.
Within the melodic hardcore scene, their unique sound—mixing punk, ska, and rock—is especially appealing.
Founded by SATOBOY and TEPPEI, the band is known for lyrics that reflect everyday events and emotions, paired with energetic, catchy melodies.
While they were highly active with a focus on live performances, they went on hiatus in 2017.
Their commitment to sharing positive messages resonated with many listeners.
Highly recommended for anyone who loves energetic music!